After three weeks away from the comforts of America First Field, Real Salt Lake returned home for a midweek match against Portland FC. The long-awaited homecoming ended in a hard-fought stalemate.
In a match that tested resilience and defensive mettle, RSL battled to a 0-0 draw, recording back-to-back results for the first time this year, and just their second draw of the campaign. Though the result may not have been the victory fans had hoped for, it marked a gritty showing, highlighted by standout efforts from RSL’s backline and another excellent display from Brazilian goalkeeper Rafael Cabral.
The man in charge at RSL, Head Coach Pablo Mastroeni, kept three of his four defenseman from Saturday's match in Dallas, defenders Noel Caliskan, Sam Junqua and Alex Katranis, along with Bode Hidalgo slotting into the starting back line. The unit was a brick wall: compact, disciplined, and unshakable.
Caliskan’s defense on the right side and midfielder Braian Ojeda in the center of the pitch performed brilliantly, forming a gritty and disciplined defense-heavy duo that made life difficult for Portland all night. Their relentless pressure, smart positioning, and physical presence disrupted the Timbers’ rhythm and clogged up passing lanes, forcing turnovers and breaking up attacks before they could build. Whether it was Ojeda’s sharp anticipation or Caliskan’s tenacity in the tackle, the pair set the tone defensively and helped anchor a midfield that refused to be broken down
The Claret-and-Cobalt found its offensive footing early, creating scoring chances and maintaining strong possession throughout most of the first half. However, the final 45 minutes were no doubt all about Cabral, who put on a goalkeeping masterclass in order to secure the clean sheet, RSL’s fourth in 15 games played across all competitions this season.
Cabral Clinic: Veteran Keeper Delivers Another Masterclass Between the Posts
With his father in the stands, making the trip from Brazil to watch him play, It almost seemed as though goalkeeper Rafael Cabral turned it up a notch, putting on a show for his VIP guest. Cabral delivered a performance that was nothing short of spectacular, turning away shot after shot and showing off some of his best form of the season. His intensity and focus were evident, and it was clear that having his father there added an extra layer of motivation to his already impressive play.
While the ball remained mostly out of his box in the first half, the last 35 minutes of play can be described as “The Cabral Clinic” with multiple 1v1 saves by the keeper. In the 59th minute Portland was able to build in the attacking third and set up a shot that would force Cabral out to make a sliding save with his body.
From then on, RSL and the Timbers traded in a battle of shots. Mastroeni made substitutions late in the game that pushed Zavier Gozo into the striker position. With that change, Gozo brought a new-found energy to the attacking third, giving the team multiple opportunities to take the lead.
In the 88th minute, Portland capitalized on a free kick and Cabral made two jaw-dropping saves in quick succession, his lightning-quick reflexes and flawless positioning keeping the ball out of the net in a moment where most keepers wouldn’t have stood a chance, turning potential goals into highlight-reel saves.
As the season progresses, the pieces are starting to fall into place for Real Salt Lake. The team is showing greater cohesion on both ends of the pitch, with a more confident back line and an offense finding its rhythm, now just needing to find the missing piece and find the back of the net. At the heart of it all remains Rafael Cabral, whose presence in goal continues to be a steadying force and a consistent bright spot. With his sharp reflexes, smart positioning, and poise under pressure, Cabral is a key ingredient as RSL looks to build momentum in the weeks ahead.
What’s Next for RSL?
The Claret-and-Cobalt head to Colorado Saturday May 17 to face their rivals in the Rocky Mountain Cup. Kickoff is slated for 7:30 PM MT and will be streaming on Apple TV with the MLS Season Pass.
